A web developer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining websites and web applications. This career involves working with programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and often back-end languages like PHP, Python, or Ruby. Web developers can specialise in front-end development, which focuses on the parts of a website users interact with, or back-end development, which involves the server side and databases. Many web developers also work with frameworks and content management systems such as WordPress. The job often involves working closely with designers and clients to create websites that are functional, visually appealing, and user-friendly. As businesses and organisations continue to move their services online, the need for skilled web developers is consistently high.
Web developers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £55,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
The demand for web developers in the UK is expected to grow by around 8 percent from 2021 to 2031, reflecting the increasing importance of digital services.
There are currently over 45,000 web development roles advertised annually in the UK.
Creates the visual parts of websites that users interact with, using languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Builds and maintains the server side of websites, working with databases and server technologies to ensure websites function properly.
Ensures that websites are accessible to people with disabilities by following best practices and accessibility standards.
Start by learning core web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are the essential building blocks of the web. There are many free and paid resources available online, including tutorials, video courses and interactive coding platforms. Practise by building simple web pages and experimenting with styling and interactivity.
Gain an understanding of how websites work, including client-server models and how browsers display web pages.
Learn about how web browsers request and display content, and how servers provide data using protocols like HTTP. This knowledge will help you troubleshoot issues and create better web experiences.
Develop skills in creating websites that work well on different devices and screen sizes.
Responsive web design is crucial for modern websites. Practise using CSS techniques such as media queries and flexible layouts to ensure your sites look good on mobiles, tablets, and desktops.
Explore popular frameworks and libraries such as React, Angular, or Vue for front-end development, and Node.js or Django for back-end development.
Frameworks and libraries can help you build more complex web applications efficiently. Choose one to start with and build projects that use advanced features like dynamic content and API integration.
Get comfortable with Git and platforms like GitHub to manage and share your code.
Version control is essential for collaborative work and managing changes to your projects. Practise creating repositories, making commits, and collaborating with others on open-source or group projects.
Create a portfolio website showcasing your projects and skills.
A portfolio demonstrates your abilities to potential employers or clients. Include links to your projects, descriptions of your work, and any relevant code repositories. Make sure the site itself is well-designed and highlights your best work.
Look for internships, freelance projects, or entry-level roles to gain real-world experience.
Even small projects or volunteering can help you build your CV and network. Consider contributing to open-source projects or helping local organisations update their websites.
Web technologies change rapidly, so keep learning and connect with other professionals.
Join online communities, attend meetups or conferences, and follow industry news. Networking can help you find job opportunities and stay informed about new tools and best practices.
Start applying for full-time positions or freelance work as a web developer.
Tailor your CV and cover letter to each role, highlighting your skills, experience, and portfolio. Prepare for interviews by practising technical questions and discussing your projects confidently.
Software engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems and applications for computers and other devices.
User Experience (UX) designers focus on creating websites and applications that are easy and enjoyable for people to use.
IT support technicians assist with computer and network issues, helping users resolve problems and maintain their IT systems.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Web Developer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.
These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
A Web Developer and a Software Developer both focus on designing, coding, and maintaining software applications, often using similar programming languages and development tools. The primary difference lies in the platforms they target, but in broad terms, their qualifications closely align due to their technical skills and development processes.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or a degree in:
You'll usually need:
You could do a college course to learn some of the skills needed to get a trainee position, or to move onto further study. Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete. They combine on-the-job training with time spent at a college or other learning provider.
You'll usually need:
You may be able to apply for a place on a graduate training scheme with an IT company, if you have a degree.
These are often open to graduates of any subject, not just people with a degree in a computing.
You could build up your skills and knowledge using online learning resources for:
You can find out more about working and training in computing from:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
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NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
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Email
[email protected]
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